The Stamford Bridge hierarchy have run out of patience with the Ivory Coast striker's public posturing over his future.

Chelsea know that Barcelona and AC Milan, the two most likely destinations for Jose Mourinho, are the only realistic suitors for Drogba (above), who has spoken of his ambitions to join either club. And Chelsea will only sell to Barca if Messi is part of the deal - and make a similar point with Kaka and the Italians.

Chelsea's stance effectively values Drogba at more than £40million, three and a half years after his £24m arrival from Marseilles.

The hardline approach, backed by owner Roman Abramovich, to an increasingly inevitable departure comes with Chelsea angered by Drogba's inability to stick to his word.

But it also signposts the style of play Abramovich envisages next season, with Kaka and Messi representing the players the Russian billionaire wants in a Blues shirt.